Have you ever wondered why making long term healthy changes is so challenging for most people? Research shows that taking smaller steps to improve your health are key to making changes that stick.
Check out the top three action items that make changing your health for the better a little easier. When these simple steps become habits, they can add up to a big positive effect on your overall health.
Get proper sleep. Studies show when we don’t get enough sleep at night our bodies are affected physically, emotionally and mentally. We make poor decisions in general when we don’t get enough sleep or our sleep quality is poor. Be intentional about your sleep habits. Turn off all electronics at least 2 hours before bedtime and go to bed at the same time every night, even on the weekend.
Manage your stress. Stress is a natural part of our human experience. Our bodies are designed to manage stress in small doses. The problem emerges when we are exposed to persistent stress without an efficient way to manage it. Our overall health suffers a TON when we don’t regulate stress. Experts recommend regular physical activity ( at least 30 minutes a day 5 days per week), meditation and breathwork exercises are all great ways to manage day to day stress. Even something as simple as listening to calming music or soaking in a bubble bath can help you relax and destress.
Focus on nutrient dense whole foods. You’ve probably heard the old saying “ you are what you eat.” Well it turns out that we truly are what we eat. The standard American diet ( aka SAD diet) has left millions of Americans diseased and stuck in a cycle of poor health. Try making just one or two changes each week if you find yourself in this situation. Fill your plate with bright beautiful non starchy vegetables and fiber rich fruit instead of processed foods. Stick to lean meat choices and drink water instead of soda or sugary tea. Can you swap out fried chicken for a grilled choice at your favorite fast food restaurant? There are tons of options to choose from to make your diet healthier.
The good news is that it’s not too late for you to make lifestyle changes that will improve your health substantially. As long as you have breath in your lungs, you have hope to make a change.
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